What Happened
The Pittsburgh Penguins activated forward Ben Kindel and defenceman Sam Girard from injured reserve on Thursday, the team announced. Kindel returned to practice Tuesday after collapsing on the team's flight back from Utah because of a vasovagal episode. Coach Dan Muse told reporters Thursday morning that Kindel, Evgeni Malkin and Egor Chinakhov are expected to play. Girard will be a game-time decision for Pittsburgh's home game against Utah on Thursday night.
Key Details
- Kindel, 19, has two goals and two assists in nine games and has not played since Oct. 19.
- Kindel recorded 35 points (17 goals, 18 assists) in 77 games last season, his first in the NHL.
- Girard, 27, missed three games with a lower-body injury after crashing into the end boards Oct. 17 against Vegas.
- Muse said Kindel, Malkin and Chinakhov are expected to play Thursday.
- Puck drop against Utah is 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on Sportsnet.
What It Means
Pittsburgh gets two depth pieces back as it prepares for a home game against Utah. Kindel's return comes less than two weeks after a medical episode that halted his season; he had been practicing since Tuesday. Girard's availability remains uncertain, leaving the blue line short if he cannot play after missing three games.
What's Next
Kindel is expected to dress Thursday, while Girard's status will be settled closer to puck drop. Malkin and Chinakhov are also expected back for Pittsburgh.